Mint
Mentha
Cilantro/Coriander
Coriandrum sativum
Mint vs Cilantro for Container Growing: Fresh Herb Garden Comparison
Comparing mint and cilantro for container herb gardens. Learn which is easier to grow, faster to harvest, and better for balcony herb growing.
Quick Comparison
| Criteria | 🍃Mint | 🌱Cilantro/Coriander | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | easy | moderate | Mint |
| Days to Harvest | 90 days | 45 days | Cilantro/Coriander |
| Container Size | 8 inch pot | 6 inch pot | Tie |
| Sunlight | partial sun | partial sun | - |
| Water Needs | high | moderate | - |
| Yield | Higher | Lower | Mint |
| Beginner-Friendly | ⭐ Yes | Moderate | Mint |
Key Differences
Growing Difficulty
Nearly impossible to kill. Thrives on neglect. Will grow in almost any conditions.
Moderate difficulty. Bolts quickly in heat. Requires succession planting every 2-3 weeks.
Invasiveness
Highly invasive. MUST be grown alone. Spreads aggressively via runners. Never plant with other herbs.
Non-invasive. Well-behaved in containers. Bolts and dies before spreading.
Temperature Preference
Prefers cool conditions (60-70°F). Tolerates shade. Struggles in extreme heat.
Strictly cool-season. Bolts immediately above 75°F. Very heat-sensitive.
Growing Cycle
Perennial. Returns yearly for 5-10+ years. Dies back in winter, regrows from roots.
Annual. Short 4-6 week lifespan. Must replant constantly for continuous supply.
Maintenance Level
Extremely low. Actually needs restraining. Occasional pruning to control spread.
High maintenance. Constant replanting. Monitoring for bolting. Short harvest windows.
Flavor Profile
Cool, refreshing, sweet. Universally liked. Great in drinks, desserts, savory dishes.
Bright, citrusy, polarizing (genetic soap taste). Best fresh in salsas, curries, Asian dishes.
Best for Mint
Choose Mint if:
- You want a nearly indestructible herb
- You have partial shade conditions
- You make drinks, tea, and desserts
- You want a perennial that returns yearly
- You prefer aggressive, abundant growth
Best for Cilantro/Coriander
Choose Cilantro/Coriander if:
- You love Mexican and Asian cuisine
- You want ultra-fast harvests (3-4 weeks)
- You prefer bright, citrusy flavors
- You can succession plant regularly
- You make fresh salsa and curries
Can They Grow Together?
No, keep them separate
Never grow mint and cilantro together. Mint's aggressive root system will completely overwhelm cilantro within weeks. Mint must always be grown alone in its own container to prevent it from choking out all other plants.
The Bottom Line
Mint
Choose mint if you want a nearly indestructible perennial that thrives on neglect, returns yearly, and provides abundant harvests for drinks and desserts.
Cilantro/Coriander
Choose cilantro for fast harvests, bright citrusy Mexican and Asian flavors, and if you can commit to replanting every few weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is easier to grow: Mint or Cilantro/Coriander?
Mint is generally easier to grow in containers. It requires less maintenance and is more forgiving of mistakes.
Which grows faster: Mint or Cilantro/Coriander?
Cilantro/Coriander reaches harvest maturity faster, typically in 45 days compared to 90 days for Mint.
Can I grow Mint and Cilantro/Coriander together?
No, it's not recommended. Never grow mint and cilantro together. Mint's aggressive root system will completely overwhelm cilantro within weeks. Mint must always be grown alone in its own container to prevent it from choking out all other plants.
Which needs less space: Mint or Cilantro/Coriander?
Both Mint and Cilantro/Coriander have similar space requirements and work well in small containers.
Which produces more: Mint or Cilantro/Coriander?
Mint typically produces more harvest per plant over the growing season, making it better for maximum yield in limited space.
Which is better for beginners: Mint or Cilantro/Coriander?
Mint is more beginner-friendly due to its forgiving nature and easier care requirements. It's a great first plant for new container gardeners.
What are the main differences between Mint and Cilantro/Coriander?
The key differences include: growing difficulty, invasiveness, temperature preference. See the detailed comparison above for complete differences.
Should I choose Mint or Cilantro/Coriander for my balcony?
Choose mint if you want a nearly indestructible perennial that thrives on neglect, returns yearly, and provides abundant harvests for drinks and desserts. Choose cilantro for fast harvests, bright citrusy Mexican and Asian flavors, and if you can commit to replanting every few weeks. Consider your space, sunlight, and what you want to grow when making your decision.
Related Plant Guides
Complete Mint Growing Guide
Learn everything about growing Mint in containers.
Complete Cilantro/Coriander Growing Guide
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